Depression and anxiety increase as we enter darker nights

Socialising virtually, more online shopping and no commuting means nearly half of Brits (47%) fear they’ll see even less daylight this winter…According to new research published today, Coronavirus is pushing us into living a “mushroom existence”.

The study, commissioned by Healthspan found that young people are faring badly with just 9- per cent of 18-24-year-olds having some time outside every day compared to almost 30 per cent of the over 55s. And four out of five people (81%) admitted they had some days when they didn’t step outside at all.

It also emerged that 57 per cent are dreading this winter more than usual due to the Covid restrictions.  This doesn’t only affect our mental health, but also our physical wellbeing and immunity levels due to the lack of vitamin D.

Aston spoke to Dr Meg Arroll, TV and radio chartered psychologist to discuss the research in further detail and she also offered her advice on how to beat the winter blues.